"I couldnât be prouder of these two accomplished young students," said Lt. Colonel John Cassady.

It’s a very rare and exceptional event when one of our local high school seniors is granted an appointment at one of our nation’s prestigious military academies. The process requires mounds of paperwork, letters of high recommendation, superior academic success and a personal commendation from a State Senator. This year, Mandeville High School can boast of two such appointments. Teresa Anderson, daughter of Martha Osborne and Robert Anderson, will be attending the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Mary.; and Brenna Keller, daughter of Midge and John Keller, will attend West Point in New York.

Teresa, who serves as the Commanding Officer of the Mandeville High School Junior ROTC, enjoys leading the more than 100 cadets, after joining the organization in 9th grade. “Our program is really outstanding here at MHS. Our color guard unit has participated in over 50 events this year alone. After I joined the ROTC, I certainly gained a greater understanding of what opportunities were available out there for me. Lieutenant Colonel Cassady is our Senior Marine Instructor. He has been so instrumental in guiding me and making everything come together so well.”

Anderson shared that although she was accepted into the West Point and Air Force Academies, as well, she chose Annapolis because of the area and community. “My dad was an E5 in the Marine Corps and went there, so I knew that was where I wanted to be.”

Brenna Keller has only been at MHS for one year, but quickly rose to the rank of Cadet Corporal in the program. She was previously in high school in Florida for three years, training on a competitive national tennis team. Her high grade-point average and athletic prowess impressed West Point so much that she will also be playing on their collegiate tennis team at the academy. “I applied at the Naval Academy as well, but I chose West Point because they offered more of what I wanted. I think I want to pursue a law degree, and after graduating, I will request an Inter-service Commission to the Marine Corps."

Both girls serve on the Rifle Team with the JROTC, and have participated in numerous community service outreach programs, including Keep Mandeville Beautiful, Toys for Tots and the Color Guard. They are also quick their praise to their entire cadet squad at MHS. “My closest friends are with me in this program, and we have grown so much together. We learn to be leaders, to stand out, and protect one another,” adds Anderson. Keller says, “Our advisors, Lt. Colonel Cassady and Master Sergeant Kramer are amazing role models and leaders. We really appreciate their leadership.”

In return, Lt. Colonel John Cassady, who has been at the school for six years, is also very quick to share his admiration of the two young appointees. “Both of these students are exceptional. Teresa expressed an interest her sophomore year of attending the Naval Academy. Her grades were excellent, and she was clearly determined. She got an early letter of acceptance in September. She said she wanted it, and she earned it.” Regarding Keller, “Brenna was recruited as a high performing varsity athlete. The combination of that and her high academics are what got her in. She is an excellent athlete and very mature. I couldn’t be prouder of these two accomplished young students.”

While interviewing these ladies, I noticed how quick they were to defer praise to others. They were both mature and respectful beyond their years, and wanted to make sure that I shared their comments regarding their family support. Anderson explains, “I couldn’t have done this without Lt. Col. Cassady’s guidance. My mom, of course, was also a huge support. My grandfather, Hugh Osborne, was a ranking officer in the army. He recently passed away, but not before we were able to tell him about my commission. I’m so grateful that I was able to share this with him.” Adds Keller, “I would also agree that Lt. Col Cassady and Sgt. Major Kramer had a great deal to do with our success. But, I want to especially acknowledge my brother, Paul Tyler Comeaux, for being my role model, and my grandfather, Dr. Gerald Keller, as well. He was a medic in the army and a Battalion surgeon. What I decided to do with my life is because of these two role models. I am so thankful.”

I think high praise and congratulations are in order for these two outstanding seniors at Mandeville High School. Well done.